There are 200 different types of cold viruses. You need to be exposed to a cold virus – usually in the form of respiratory droplets (normally expelled from nose or mouth) from someone near you – in order for you to contract a cold.

• Colds are viral infections

• Antibiotics are NOT effective against viral infections and are NOT helpful for colds

• Symptoms always include nasal congestion, cough, and/or sore throat.

• Watery eyes, fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, stuffy ears can also accompany a cold.

• Colds typically last 10-14 days with gradual, steady improvement

A respiratory infection (lungs & air ways) caused by the influenza virus. There are three main types: influenza A, B, & C. The Flu is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes and expels the virus on droplets in the air – can linger for up to 3 hours – others become infected by either inhaling the virus or touching a contaminated object.

The Flu symptoms are characterized by SUDDEN ONSET of:

• Really BAD all over body aches/headache,

• Immediate extreme exhaustion & fatigue (feels like you’ve been hit by a truck and can’t get out of bed),

• High Fever – greater than 101, usually lasts 3-4 days

Also commonly experienced with the Flu: chest discomfort & cough (can become severe) and sometimes stuffy nose, sneezing, and sore throat. The Flu can last 10-14 days; some symptoms like fatigue can last up to 2-3 weeks.